Where do you need God’s help to lead you away from a temptation?

When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. James 1:13-15

If the enemy can get someone to believe their struggles with temptation are unique, he knows they will continue to hide and fight their battle all alone. When an individual’s struggle remains in the dark, they rely on pure self-will to fend off temptation. This improves the devil’s chances of overpowering the individual and making them feel helpless. They wave the white flag in surrender believing their only option is to give in to the temptation. In 1 Corinthians 10:13-14 Paul disagrees with this belief as he says God will “ show you a way you can endure.” Other translations say God provides “a way out.” We are not victims, but people who make bad choices and doubt that God truly knows best when it comes to our needs and desires.

Yet, the reality is God knows us intimately, even the things which pull at our heart strings and tempt us. The individual who has knowledge of the typical traps set by the enemy is the one who avoids stumbling blocks. So, how do we respond when we are tempted? We seek strength in community by being transparent about our struggle. We pray for God to provide us with eyes to see the escape route He provides us when facing a test or temptation. Most importantly we follow the wisdom found in Psalm 119:11 by “hiding your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”

We must learn to seek His face and respond to His voice in our lives. We do this by finding what our next right step is when it comes to our personal struggle. The first step for all of us is evaluating where we are most susceptible to fall for temptation and avoid these areas. Turning away is difficult, yet very necessary if we are to experience victory, pursue purity and take a stand against temptation. Where do you need God’s help to lead you away from a temptation? Where and when do you find yourself most vulnerable to fall to this temptation? Think about this personal struggle again. Has part of you grown comfortable in this sin?

This is my Prayer: Father God, purify my desires. Lord open my eyes to the place where I have turned away and looked towards lesser things to fulfill me. Jesus help me not feel hopeless when temptation arises, but walk securely in the strength You provide. Remind me that I am not obligated to sin and You have freed me from sin’s clutches through the cross. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.